After the initial release of the Mercedes-powered Musso back in the ’93s, SsangYong produces some awkward-looking vehicles. As probably most of our readers can recall, there’s was the second-generation of Korando. Then, the Stavic model. After that, came Actyon, which didn’t raise the sales and reestablish the Musso’s success.
Now, with the support from Indian multinational car manufacturing corporation Mahindra, the South-Korean company is back in the game. Therefore, expect to see new, more appealing, and profitable models. The first of the new generation will be the 2020 SsangYong Musso Grand.
2020 SsangYong Musso Grand Exterior Design
Even though the 2020 SsangYong Musso Grand doesn’t deliver anything revolutionary in terms of exterior design, it has a recognizable styling and appearance. The front end of the truck brings a more prominent multi-level fascia, alongside a muscular shoulder-fender line.
Also, the extended bed will be included, as well. Furthermore, the rear shoulder line doesn’t line up with the rear wheels, as can be found on the Rexton SUV. The new Musso will roll on 17-inch wheels, while the body and bed will be mounted high on the frame.
Interior
As for the cabin, 2020 SsangYong Musso Grand features a lot of soft-touch plastic and contrasting texture and color. The design is quite simple but very effective and built to accommodate up to five passengers. The interior provides a right level of comfort, and it is rendered in shared of brown, silver, and brushed steel/chrome. Moreover, the nearly-flat roof provides in-ceiling clearance for a sliding sunroof.
The Musso Grand offers a generous storage space and a large center bin. Also, you’ll find a tilt-adjustable contrast-stitched leather tiller and the power-adjustable seat, which makes sliding up and finding a perfect driving position very easy. On top of that, the high floor, and the fact that there’s no transmission bump under the rear seats provides the outstanding leg/elbow room. Besides, there’s a bit of storage underneath so that the customers can put there some equipment as well.
Equipment and Price
2020 SsangYong Musso Grand comes fairily equipped. Standard equipment includes hill-descent control, heated side mirrors, stability control, a self-dimming rear mirror, and automatic lights/wipers for all-weather driving. Also, the truck delivers an 8-inch touchscreen, tire pressure monitoring, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Furthermore, a twin 12V outlets, front USB pocket, and a 12 V socket under a waterproof flap are available as well. The bed by the tailgate includes a built-in plastic liner, with strap-down loops. The rear seats get an individual A/C vents and seat-heater controls, while the front will include power-lumbar adjustments, and heating/cooling vents integrated into the backrests and pads. The starting price of 2020 Musso Grand will be around $22,500 (1,650,000 INR).
2020 SsangYong Musso Grand Engine Specs
Different for the ’90s Mercedez-Benz-powered truck, 2020 SsangYong Musso Grand will use the brand-new 2.2-liter eXDI common-rail diesel engine. The 2.2-liter unit is available with a 6-speed Aisin automatic, and part-time 4WD. The total output is 178 hp and 309 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque.
But, the acceleration might be an issue, since the Musso goes from 0-60 mph in 11.8 seconds. The new Musso truck offers a manual shift system, which activates by shifting the lever in the M gate. Still, it might be easier to leave it in the D and press down harder on the accelerator. The Musso Grand returns approximately 35 mpg (6-7 km/L) in the city and around 40 mpg on the highway.
